United Kingdom & EMEA

Latest News

PRESS RELEASE

JVCKENWOOD Public Industry System (JKPI) signs a sponsorship agreement with top-level Japan American Football X League team “IBM BigBlue” to provide a simultaneous call intercom system for use during practice and games

Through this sponsorship agreement, JKPI will provide IBM BigBlue with a communications system based on KENWOOD’s WD-D10 Series" (ProTalk FD - WD-K10 Series in Europe) Wireless Intercom System to provide instant communication between coach and training staff. American football has evolved into a highly strategic game where team coaches analyse the effectiveness of strategies in play from the stand and the information transmitted via the trainers to team members in the field. The KENWOOD ProTalk FD is ideally suited to this application as it allows simultaneous communications between a number of people to take place at the same time, while its compact, lightweight design and excellent water and dustproof performance ensures reliability in harsh outdoor environments.

PRESS RELEASE

Signing a Three-year Sponsorship Agreement to Serve as MotoGP™ Supplier

JVCKENWOOD Corporation (JVCKENWOOD) is pleased to announce that its digital radio communications system, which is compliant with Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) international digital radio standards, has been adopted as the communications system for MotoGP™, the pinnacle of motorcycle racing. In addition, JVCKENWOOD has signed a three -year sponsorship agreement to serve as an official MotoGP™ Supplier.

► Background to Adoption and Overview of the Digital Radio Communications System
JVCKENWOOD’s Communications Systems Business, one of its core businesses, delivers digital communications system solutions that meet the needs of a wide range of users around the world. JVCKENWOOD’s digital communication systems boast high levels of quality and reliability, and are capable of providing stable digital communications even under demanding and haza rdous environments, in order to meet the strict requirements of users engaged in public safety services.

JVCKENWOOD’s long -standing technologies and know- how in digital radio communications were recognized by Dorna Sports, S.L., the Spanish company that organizes the MotoGP™ motorcycle racing world championship, and this led to the adoption of JVCKENWOOD’s digital radio communications systems. Starting with the Grand Prix of Qatar in March 2018, JVCKENWOOD’s digital radio communications systems will be us ed for communications among staff members involved in MotoGP™ operations during the 2018 MotoGP™ season, which features 19 rounds at racing circuits around the world.

Our digital radio communications systems adopted for MotoGP™ operations are compliant with DMR digital radio standards and feature high- quality communications and low noise, which are unique to digital radio communications systems. Besides, these digital radio communications systems are equipped with a DMR -compliant, highly reliable relay system of Italy -based Radio Activity, which became a subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD in January 2018. As a result, our digital 2 radio communication systems achieve a space -saving design and digital radio communications, along with high spectral efficiency unique to DM R-compliant systems, to meet the needs of MotoGP™ races held around the world.

► Overview of Sponsorship
Coinciding with the adoption of our digital radio communications systems, JVCKENWOOD has signed a three -year sponsorship agreement to serve as an official MotoGP™ Supplier starting from the 2018 season. JVCKENWOOD will display the KENWOOD logo at racing circuits hosting the MotoGP™ Grand Prix of the Americas (third round), MotoGP™ Grand Prix of the Netherlands (eighth round), and MotoGP™ Grand Prix of San Marino (13th round). JVCKENWOOD, as official MotorGP™ Supplier, will carry out promotional activities using racing photos to enhance the brand’s presence.

This document is based on the information available to the Company at the time of release and may differ from the latest information.

NEWS RELEASE

To be unveiled at Dayton Hamvention
Late Summer 2018 release

Stay tuned for more information!

NEWS RELEASE

Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the introduction of the NEXEDGE® Series of digital two-way radio systems

JVCKENWOOD Corporation is proud to announce the 10th anniversary of the introduction of the KENWOOD-brand NEXEDGE Series of professional digital two-way radios. To mark this occasion a white paper on the NEXEDGE Series has been issued.

► Outstanding benefits of the NEXEDGE Series

The NEXEDGE Series employs NXDN™, a future-proof narrow-band protocol employing 6.25/12.5 kHz FDMA technology and offering significant advantages. For example, 6.25 kHz dual-channel systems can be configured to fit within a 12.5 kHz channel, effectively doubling spectrum efficiency compared to an analog FM system. It also provides wider coverage and superior multipath characteristics. Yet at the same time NXDN systems support mixed digital/analog operation, thus facilitating smooth migration to a narrow-band digital system. With these and other benefits such as clear voice quality, low noise and strong security, NEXEDGE has established an enviable reputation for high performance and reliability among public safety professionals and commercial users around the world.

► Enhanced scalability offered by NEXEDGE Gen2

Since its introduction, NEXEDGE has offered digital conventional and trunked radio network system solutions to meet the diverse requirements of a wide range of users. And 2015 saw the debut of Gen2, the second generation of NEXEDGE products, with enhanced features, flexibility and performance – including the capability of linking up to 1,000 sites or 24 networks. Commercial utilities and railroad companies are among the many industry users to benefit from such powerful statewide/nationwide connectivity.

► NXDN protocol recognized as international standard by ITU

In 2017 the NXDN Common Air Interface (CAI) was accepted by the International Telecommunications Union in its Radio Communications Sector (ITU-R) report M.2014. This represented official recognition of NXDN as an international standard, a protocol offering exceptional spectrum efficiency that paves the way for even wider adoption on a global scale.

► Expanded lineup offering multi-protocol support

Markets evolve and so does the NEXEDGE Series, anticipating new user requirements with expanded functionality. The new multi-protocol models, for example, provide support for DMR and P25 protocols in addition to NXDN. These make it even easier for users of legacy systems to make a future-proof investment in NEXEDGE radios that allows them to migrate to a digital system at their own pace – even if they are still undecided about which digital system to pick.

Trademarks
NEXEDGE® is a trademark or registered trademark of JVCKENWOOD Corporation.
• NXDN™ is a trademark or registered trademark of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and Icom Incorporated. • All other company names, brand names and product names are registered trademarks or trade names of their respective holders.

The above announcement is that initially released to the press, and it may not reflect the latest information.

The airport in Rostock-Laage started life as a military airfield, but since 1993 has become the largest airport for passenger transport in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in northern Germany and an important regional hub for air-freight.

With its strategic location in northern Germany, 1 million passengers per annum capacity, Rostock Airport serves both tourists and business travellers visiting the Mecklenburgs-Vorpommern Baltic Sea recreational area.

The airport handled over 250,000 passengers on more than 14,300 flights in 2016.

In addition to its passenger services Rostock Airport is also an important regional hub for cargo distribution

With a population of 3.75 million and a total area of some 2844 km2, Cape Town is the capital of the Western Cape province and home to the Nextalk Public Access Mobile Radio (PAMR) network.

The company behind the Nextalk network is RFG Communication, whose Managing Director, Wayne Martin joined the company in 1992 as Workshop Manager and went on to buy the company in 1995.

Since then the business has grown and broadened its customer base from serving the farming community to include a wider service industry profile from its state of the art facility in the Gants industrial area in Strand, Western Cape.

RFG Communication is the majority shareholder in Nextalk, a wide area, trunked digital radio network offering seamless roaming of connected equipment between its strategically located repeater sites.

NEWS RELEASE

Yokohama, Japan (July 11, 2017) — JVCKENWOOD Corporation (http://www.jvckenwood.co.jp/en/) is pleased to announce that, to commemorate KENWOOD’s 70th anniversary, it is producing a limited edition of the TS-590SG – the renowned HF/50MHz transceiver noted for its exceptional RX performance and operating ease. This Special Black version of the TS-590SG, identified by a special serial number, will go on sale this September, with overseas availability limited to 250 units in the US market, and 150 units in Europe.

Limited-edition Special Black Version TS-590SG

Product concept

As a major manufacturer specializing in both audio and wireless communications, KENWOOD’s roots are to be found in the period of postwar economic growth, among a new generation of Japanese audiophiles and ham radio enthusiasts. Drawing on the advanced technologies and expertise gained over many years in both audio and wireless, we were able to satisfy even the most discerning customers by offering leading-edge products that were always one step ahead in innovation and performance. Now, in gratitude for the enduring support we have received from our customers, we have created this limited-edition Special Black version of the TS-590SG to commemorate KENWOOD’s 70th anniversary.

Product details

Based on the current TS-590SG HF/50MHz transceiver, this Special Black version features a distinctive front panel, main dial and glass screen. As a special deluxe model, it thus offers the highest levels of performance, functional versatility and quality in this product category – a reputation already established by the current model. We feel confident that this limited edition will more than satisfy the high expectations of our customers with an eye for elegant design.

A total of only 470 units of the Special Black TS-590SG will be made available worldwide, with a special serial number (unique for each market) applied to the rear panel.

Specifications

Specifications are identical to the current TS-590SG model.

Kenwood NEXEDGE protecting borders and wildlife at Kruger National Park

Kenwood distributor for South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, Global Communications has completed the radio communication system upgrade for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) operating in the worldrenowned Kruger National Park.

The park which is situated in the heart of the Lowveld covers an area of 19,485 square kilometres and became South Africa’s first national park in 1926.

Kruger National Park borders with Zimbabwe in the north and Mozambique to the east and is part of the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere, an area designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) as an International Man and Biosphere Reserve.

It is the natural habitat to some of the most diverse and important wildlife on the planet.

The South African National Defence Force plays a dual role at the park in protecting its national borders and supporting the SAN Parks game rangers in their vital operations against rhino poachers crossing into the park from Mozambique.

NEWS RELEASE

The new NX-3000 Series seamlessly integrates into an existing system, where it will instantly become an indispensable communications asset

- Designed for a host of different business categories, from enterprise to operation-critical applications
- Great convenience afforded by a wide range of features
- Software license options to facilitate after-purchase customization ensuring a model that perfectly matches specific customer requirements

To satisfy a wider range of customers and users with diverse radio requirements, KENWOOD is launching the NEXEDGE® NX-3000 Series, which succeeds the NX-2x0/3x0 Series. What makes the NX-3000 Series unique is that it supports both NXDN™ (Conventional, Type-C and Gen2 Trunking) and DMR (Tier II and Site Roaming) digital protocols*1 as well as legacy FM analog to ensure seamless integration with existing radio systems. Additionally, not only is the new NX-3000 Series backward-compatible with numerous existing accessories, but new software license options are also available to facilitate a variety of solutions to meet the specific needs of each customer.

Welcome features for both portable and mobile models

Featured on both portable and mobile models is an HSP (Headset Profile) Bluetooth® module that enables hands-free operation; SPP (Serial Port Profile) can be added as an option. Clear audio, for which KENWOOD radios are renowned, is supported by ANR (Active Noise Reduction). And safeguarding important information is software-based 40-bit ARC4 (DMR) encryption, while more advanced 56-bit DES and 256-bit AES are offered as an option.*2

The portable models are powered by a compact lithium-ion battery with extended operating life. They will initially launch with a 2-pin audio connector models (UHF: NX-3220/VHF: NX-3320); 14-pin Universal connector models (UHF: NX-3200/VHF: NX-3300) will follow in a few months. Customers can choose from three different models: Full Keypad model with LCD, Standard Keypad model with LCD and 4-way D-pad, and the Basic Model without LCD or keypad. A built-in GPS receiver*3 not only ensures that the unit’s precise location is quickly relayed for effective fleet management but also allows the user to choose an antenna of their preference. Models with a display feature a 1.74-in 240 x 180 pixel white-backlit LCD. And atop each portable radio is a new 7-color Light Bar Indicator, which can be configured to identify each channel with a unique color, along with a 16-position selector and power switch/audio volume knob.

The mobile radios in this series offer the same features as the portables. Selection can be made from models with a built-in GPS/BT module (UHF: NX-3720G/HG / VHF: NX-3820G/HG) and those without the module (UHF: NX-3720/H / VHF: NX-3820/H), plus high-power models (identified by the suffix H or HG). The panel features a full-dot matrix monochrome LCD with 4-line Basic Frame LCD and 7-color LED indicator; the buttons are backlit for easy operation even in the dark.

NXDN™ is a trademark of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and Icom Inc. NEXEDGE® is a registered trademark of JVCKENWOOD Corporation. All other company names, brand names and product names are registered trademarks or trade names of their respective holders.

NEWS RELEASE

ITU-R Recognition of the Open Standard Protocol Utilized by KENWOOD NEXEDGE® Product

Yokohama, Japan (Mar. 28, 2017) — JVCKENWOOD Corporation announces that the NXDN Common Air Interface (CAI) was accepted at the Study Group 5 (SG5) meeting of the International Telecommunications Union Radiocommunications Sector (ITU-R) held in November 2016 and in Report M.2014-3, published in February 2017. This inclusion is highly significant since it represents official recognition – by the organization in charge of international standards – of NXDN as an international digital land mobile system, paving the way for its even wider adoption on a global scale.

NXDN is an open standard narrowband digital protocol employing 6.25 kHz and 12.5 kHz FDMA technology to comply with frequency coordination requirements in many countries; it supports a comprehensive radio system including trunked, non-trunked and direct mobile-to-mobile communication. NXDN was developed by JVCKENWOOD in cooperation with Icom Incorporated to offer an alternative for the Land Mobile Radio (LMR) industry that would facilitate development of more affordable digital radio products that would satisfy the FCC narrowbanding mandate. It is also intended to help countries that lack sufficient frequency resources for their public safety agencies and business operators.

This future-proof protocol offers numerous advantages. For example, 6.25 kHz dual-channel systems can be configured to fit within a 12.5 kHz channel, effectively doubling spectrum efficiency compared to an analog FM system occupying the same channel. Two NXDN channels can be allocated as voice/voice, voice/data, or data/data. Compared to analog FM, it provides wider coverage and superior multipath characteristics, but at the same time NXDN systems support mixed digital/analog operation, thus facilitating smooth migration to a narrowband digital system. With these and other advantages such as clear voice quality and strong security, it has proved highly successful and the number of NXDN radio terminals supplied into mission-critical and non-mission critical applications has grown rapidly. NXDN has truly become a leading digital protocol for mobile communications.

NXDN is implemented in the KENWOOD-brand NEXEDGE product range, which since 2008 has offered digital conventional and trunked radio solutions to meet the diverse requirements of a wide range of government and industry users. And 2015 saw the debut of Gen2, the second generation of NEXEDGE products, with enhanced features, flexibility and performance – including the capability of linking up to 1,000 sites or 24 networks. NEXEDGE solutions are leveraging the full potential of the NXDN protocol, now officially recognized by the ITU.

Thanks a million!

ProTalk PMR446. Sales top one million units in Europe

Since the introduction of the license-free PMR446 format in Europe from 1999, Kenwood's ProTalk® PMR446 hand-portable radios have established an enviable reputation among professional users for offering a simple to use, rugged and dependable radio solution for instant voice communication.

Now in its fourth generation, Kenwood ProTalk has recently achieved sales of over 1 million units throughout Europe; proof that what successive generations of ProTalk PMR446 radios have achieved since the TK-3101 was launched in 1999, is the gold standard for professional license-free radios.

As to the future, all ProTalk TK-3501 and PKT-23 analogue and TK-3401D V2 models have already been upgraded to make full use of the new, increased PMR446 frequency spectrum and with the introduction of innovative communications solutions, you can be sure that Kenwood ProTalk will stay at the forefront of the license-free space.

A million thanks to our distributors, resellers and all our customers for making ProTalk PMR446 such a resounding success.

Delivering live coverage of Centrepoint’s fundraising gala and awards event at Kensington Palace”

The second annual Centrepoint Awards and fundraising event took place in the stunning grounds of Kensington Palace to celebrate the achievements of young people who have successfully overcome their difficulties with the charity's help. Realise Films were commissioned to deliver live coverage of the star-studded event with the help of a Kenwood NEXEDGE radio system.

Licence free - takes away so much hassle!

I have been using Kenwood Radios now for nearly a year & there are a number of key features that make them super useful and now I depend on them for communication as a pro skier on the slopes.

Size - They are incredibly small which is the biggest selling point to me. I can pop it into any pocket in my jacket (smaller than my iPhone!) without it getting in the way. So many radios out there barely fit and are bulky and get in the way, so this is ideal.

Lightweight - Another key feature, not only small but you can barely feel it either. So much lighter than anything i have used before which is a super strong point. Anything that gets uni my way skiing just takes that little bit of focus on the slopes, so this is fantastic that they really are hassle free.

Long range - They have such a long range! Perfect signal even when i am kin’s away from my friends. Takes away the fear of not being able to find people, especially incredibly useful when i am freeriding with clients to manage the group when someone falls or is behind… No need to use data and also much more reliable when you are off the beaten track where mobiles often dont work. Another thing i noticed was the battery life - really long which is useful to say the least. Incredible also in the cold and at altitude.

For Frédéric Sausset, competing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans 2016 was much more than just a race. It’s was his Race for Life.

Frédéric Sausset is a remarkable man. In 2012, after contracting a deadly form of septicemia while on holiday just a few weeks after attending the 24 Hours of LeMans, the 46-year old businessman and motorsport enthusiast was to have his four limbs amputated.Find out more ►

Wow your’s is so much smaller than mine!

Sometimes small equates to less superior but whenever fellow coaches or mountain goers see our Kenwood ProTalk Two Way radios their comments are never negative. They are curious and confused.

Curious to how I can be running an alpine ski team where safety and communication is of paramount importance and yet I trust such a small method of communication. Well that is an easy argument - the clarity of the audio even over the long range is incredibly competitive (as good as the huge radio units with awkward looking long antennas).

Confused? Because naturally not everyone is aware of how technology has progressed in terms of packing more effiiciency into the smallest of units.

We ask a lot from our Kenwood buddies - they must be durable - they have to withstand freezing temperatures, wind and frosted fog and consistently perform despite being used almost 200 days a year all around the world.

The latter being again an area where the radios come up trumps because they are license free. As a team we travel so much and so frequently that to pre organise a license for each and every one of our radios would be near impossible so this really is the icing on the cake.

We know we are not substituting quality for size. In our dangerous sport we have to rely heavily on both the performance of our radios and their practicality and function.

I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending these radios to everyone - whatever sport or outdoor passion you love.

Introducing the TH-D74A/TH-D74E for the Ultimate in APRS® and D-STAR® Performance

August 8, 2016 – KENWOOD has already garnered an enviable reputation with the TH-D72A/E handheld APRS® amateur radio transceiver. Andnow it has raised the bar even further with the new TH-D74A/E, adding support for D-STAR®, the digital voice & data protocol developed by the JARL, and enabling simultaneous APRS and D-STAR operation – an industry first. As well as offering intuitive operation and rugged IP54/55 weatherproofing, this top-of-the-line portable transceiver features built-in GPS, wide-band multi-mode reception, IF filters, DSP equalizer, a transflective TFT color display, microSD memory slot and Bluetooth/USB connectivity.

* APRS is a registered trademark of WB4APR Mr. Bob Bruninga. D-STAR (Digital Smart Technology for Amateur Radio) is a digital radio protocol developed by JARL (Japan Amateur Radio League). All other company names, brand names and product names are registered trademarks or trade names of their respective holders.

Triple-Digital Radios – An Industry First! The KENWOOD NX-5000 Series
Now Supports DMR as well as NXDN & P25 Protocols for Maximum Flexibility

1st October 2016 – KENWOOD continues to invest its extensive experience and acclaimed technologies in NEXEDGE, an innovative digital communications solution that satisfies the most stringent requirements of today’s mission-critical radio users. And with the new addition of DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) support, NEXEDGE leaps further ahead of the competition: NX-5000 Series portable and mobile radios are compatible with three different digital protocols – NXDN, DMR and P25 (Phase 1 & 2) – enabling them to serve in all public sector, commercial and public safety roles with flawless performance and advanced feature sets.

DMR support
DMR is an open radio standard established in 2005 by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) for commercial communications. It uses 2-slot TDMA in a 12.5 kHz channel, effectively doubling the capacity of existing 12.5 kHz equipment. This provides smooth communications and coordination for staff in a wide variety of commercial environments, including retail, hospitality and manufacturing.

Compatibility with the DMR AIS IP Console Interface facilitates radio dispatch operations, while Call Interruption
is ideal for security guards. Digital DMR Data Services and Remote Monitoring are among several other
benefits.

With the addition of DMR support, the NX-5000 Series now offers unsurpassed interoperability and flexibility. A
single NX-5000 radio can simultaneously support two digital protocols plus FM analog, offering the following
combinations: FM/DMR/NXDN, FM/NXDN/P25, and FM/DMR/P25.

Whether it’s nationwide enterprises building large-scale trunked networks with NXDN, staff staying in touch via
DMR or first responders maintaining vital contact with P25 – the NX-5000 Series has a clear digital advantage.

* Other models and options are available. Consult a local KENWOOD dealer for details.
NXDN™ is a trademark of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and Icom Inc. NEXEDGE® is a registered trademark of JVCKENWOOD
Corporation. All other company names, brand names and product names are registered trademarks or trade names of their respective
holders.

Introducing the TH-D74A/TH-D74E for the Ultimate in APRS® and D-STAR® Performance

August 8, 2016 – KENWOOD has already garnered an enviable reputation with the TH-D72A/E handheld APRS® amateur radio transceiver. Andnow it has raised the bar even further with the new TH-D74A/E, adding support for D-STAR®, the digital voice & data protocol developed by the JARL, and enabling simultaneous APRS and D-STAR operation – an industry first. As well as offering intuitive operation and rugged IP54/55 weatherproofing, this top-of-the-line portable transceiver features built-in GPS, wide-band multi-mode reception, IF filters, DSP equalizer, a transflective TFT color display, microSD memory slot and Bluetooth/USB connectivity.

* APRS is a registered trademark of WB4APR Mr. Bob Bruninga. D-STAR (Digital Smart Technology for Amateur Radio) is a digital radio protocol developed by JARL (Japan Amateur Radio League). All other company names, brand names and product names are registered trademarks or trade names of their respective holders.

JVCKENWOOD and its mission-critical P25 specialist, EF Johnson Technologies, have won a contract to deliver a P25 system solution – including radios and support services – to the Taipei City Police Department. This marks the first time that JVCKENWOOD and its affiliate EF Johnson have teamed up to secure a major contract.

Taipei has a population of 2.7 million; Taipei City PD operates 14 precincts and 94 police stations over an area of 270 square kilometers. For its scale alone this represents a considerable challenge in terms of radio communications. The solution is a cutting-edge P25 system that will improve coverage and provide secure, reliable city-wide communications.

P25 is a suite of standards developed to ensure interoperability among public safety agencies – including law enforcement, fire departments and EMS. The feature-packed NX-5000 Series and the ATLAS solution are designed to answer the demanding requirements of today’s mission-critical users, and offer KENWOOD’s renowned quality and first-class reliability, even when used in demanding environments.

By investing in P25 technology, Taipei City PD has a future-proof system. They will benefit from greater choice and enjoy all the benefits of a solution that meets the complex needs of law enforcement in Taipei.

KENWOOD, a brand of JVCKENWOOD Corp., is renowned for high sound quality and technical expertise in the fields of car electronics, radio communication systems and audio equipment. EF Johnson Technologies Inc. was acquired by JVCKENWOOD in 2014 to enhance its P25 product offering with an extensive range of solutions and options for professionals in the public safety market.

Trademarks
• NEXEDGE is a registered trademark of JVCKENWOOD Corporation • ATLAS and StarGate are registered trademarks of EF Johnson Technologies Inc. • All other company names, brand names and product names are registered trademarks or trade names of their respective holders.

78 Wembley Squadron take to the air with Kenwood ProTalk

Based in North West London, the 78 Wembley Squadron, RAF Air Cadets, is part of the Royal Air Force and forms a youth organisation for young people aged 13-20. It offers cadets a range of different activities which will help develop young adults by building their self- confidence and helping them to gain key skills which will be essential in their adult lives.

78 Wembley Squadron have previously used a number of different radio systems, some of which did not meet all of their needs. However, the Kenwood TK3501 ProTalk license-free PMR hand portable walkie talkies and EMC-11 clip microphones with earphones have exceeded their expectations. Click here for the case study.

'My Kenwood Buddy' by 4-time Winter Olympian Chemmy Alcott

Most people (well probably more the ladies) follow the above ritual before drifting off to sleep each night. Well maybe 4 our of the 5. For me and may life and need to communicate with those around me, our Kenwood radios are as important to us as our mobile phones.

Mobiles of course are most peoples top methods to check in. Well what if you are up a mountain, phone reception is negligible and it is paramount that you get a message to your trainees in the start gate to let them know the course is running great except for maybe the fourth blue which has a small rut created from the pressure of 50 racers before hand? Or you are dropping a small cliff for a photoshoot and you have one take and need to make sure you and the photographer are ready for action? Or if you are skiing as two groups of friends of different abilities and want to make sure you have your gluwhein break at the same time?

Mobiles aren’t sufficient for this kind of immediate communication in areas with little phone reception. Following a sport like skiing where there are dangers, our Kenwood radios have become imperative to us running a successful business in winter sport.

Fellow skiers or snowboarders wonder in amazement at the size and range of our radios. Surely if they are that small they can’t work well? I hear that all the time… And my reply is that the scottish voice they just heard is from my husband and business partner who is approximately 1.5 km away from me up the mountain at the start whilst i slip down the course giving feedback. Clarity is key for us. Any missed information could be disastrous. Knowledge is power and as a ski coach my most important role is to make sure our CDC athletes know exactly the path they must ski and how they must attack all the undulating terrain and jumps. Our radios dotted around the mountain ensure we know where our team is at all times and how they are feeling. On race days we have one in the snack bag at the bottom of the run. One is hung around the neck of our house parent in the finish to make sure the athletes give us immediate feedback on how they feel they run was and for us to celebrate their success and if things didn’t go to plan to immediately give them a focus for improvement.

For me the success of CDC is that we are a little but great team. We are a team on the slopes, off the slopes and even at home whilst at school. Our radios help nit us together. Share our fears and successes with each other.

This week they came in oh so handy helping us to get a one shot mini lip drop. The light was going, a storm swirling in at the horizon and we had one chance. We set up the shot. Communicated together on the angle, on the technique, the timing … even the facial expression needed and BOOM we did it! Without our radios we would have 100% missed the shot!

I recommend everyone on the mountain to carry radios. To optimise your experience, to share your excitement, to iron out complicated logistics - whatever you need it for, your little Kenwood buddy will be there to help you!

CitiCall was chosen by the Singapore SEA Games Organising Committee to provide radio communications throughout the 28th SEA Games 2015. In this event, CitiCall achieved a great success being supported by NEXEDGE®*1 radios backed by a nationwide digital trunking system.

Representing the new generation of trunk radio operators, management at CitiCall has over three decades of radio/telecom expertise. Today, CitiCall is a nationwide digital trunk radio operator employing NEXEDGE® technology. For the SEA Games, CitiCall worked in partnership with Radioquip Communications, a dealer with 17 years of experience managing radio rentals for such sporting events as international motor racing, marathons, golfing, tennis, football, rugby and swimming competitions. Click here for the case study.

Read how Kenwood ProTalk dPMR466 was put to work by Jacksons Fencing to help coordinate a large construction team throughout a major security upgrade project at the Eurotunnel Terminal in Coquelles, France which was part of a high-profile Anglo-French initiative to upgrade safety and security against illegal migration activity. Click here for the case study.

JVCKENWOOD receives letter of appreciation from ARISS
Radio System Plays Key Role in Communications Between Earth and Astronauts
System makes it possible for amateur radio operators all over the world to contact the International Space Station

JVCKENWOOD Corporation was presented with a letter of appreciation for many years of service related to the amateur radio system on the International Space Station as well as support of future operations, in Tokyo on August 22, 2015. ARISS (Amateur Radio on the International Space Station), the organization in charge of the amateur radio station system on the ISS, commended JVCKENWOOD for contributing the radio system and providing technical support during the ARISS In

ternational delegates meeting held in Tokyo this year. Sponsored by amateur radio organizations and space agencies in the USA, Russia, Canada, Japan and Europe, the activities of ARISS are designed to inspire students worldwide, to pursue interests and careers in science, technology, engineering and math through amateur radio communications opportunities with the ISS on-orbit crew.

The amateur radio system that JVCKENWOOD provided has been running for over 10 years since its installation on the International Space Station in 2003, where it has reliably assisted communication between astronauts on the ISS and amateur radio operators on earth, possibly including a whole new generation of astronauts and scientists. This system is based on the TM-D700E radio, modified to support ARISS operations.

KENWOOD is expanding its line-up of DMR two-way radios with the introduction of the TK-D240/D340 portables and TK-D740/D840 mobiles, tailored for business use and capable of handling both analogue and digital communications simultaneously. Compatible with the ETSI standard for DMR Tier II (conventional) licensed operation, these radios are specified for 2-slot TDMA operation in 12.5 kHz channels, meaning they can offer greater spectrum efficiency.

Since these two-in-one DMR radios can operate in both digital and FM analogue modes, switching automatically as needed, they make an ideal choice for smoothing migration from legacy analogue to full digital. What is more, they can operate in dual-slot direct mode – without a base station or repeater – supporting two simultaneous subscriber calls in a single 12.5 kHz channel, thus doubling channel capacity. They also offer 5-Tone signalling and such added value as Call Interruption and KENWOOD enhanced audio quality with AMBE+2™ VOCODER technology.

The ergonomically styled TK-D240/D340 entry-level portables – suited for a wide range of workplaces, from warehouses and industry to shops and hotels – are tough enough to withstand the most demanding use: they comply with both MIL-STD and IP54/55 environmental standards. And despite their superbly slim design and competitive price, they offer 1-watt audio output and extra battery life for extended hours of operation.

Although designed for vehicular use, the TK-D740/D840 mobile radios (with KMC-35 or KMC-36 microphone) still conform to MIL-STD C/D/E/F/G standards for ruggedness while being IP54 rated for water & dust intrusion. To enhance operating ease the front panel features 9 programmable function keys, a customisable blue LED, and a large 2-digit LED display with brightness adjustment so it is always clear which channel is being used.

26 October 2015 – Since 2007, NEXEDGE has offered digital conventional and trunked radio solutions to meet the diverse requirements of a wide range of enterprise and mission-critical users. And now KENWOOD is proud to announce NEXEDGE Generation 2 – “Gen2”. This new generation of NEXEDGE System offers enhanced features, scalability, flexibility and performance – including the capability to link 1,000+ sites or 24 networks.

Digital Wide Area/Multi-System Trunking: With the new Linux based System Controller, Gen2 supports digital trunked wide area/multi-system IP networks of 1,000+ sites or 24 networks for roaming, calling and data exchanging. Networks can be created over existing NEXEDGE repeaters, IT assets, private microwave, spread-spectrum links or services using 10/100 Base-T Ethernet with up to 65,519 group/unit IDs. To determine the best site for roaming and registration, subscriber units use advanced control channel hunting algorithms, as well as RF signal strength and digital signal quality monitoring. And all features such as individual call, group call, remote group add, and data transferring are supported across systems thanks to the Gen2 System Controller and Bridge.

Major Gen2 Features include:

Linux server based system architecture to expand processing capacity and manageability

Ability to use your current monitoring applications with SNMP for NEXEDGE repeaters

Direct Frequency Assignment (DFA) so that when a new frequency is added all subscriber units roaming in the system are updated automatically

Data Channel for handling of vast quantity of GPS data from radios on duty

Capability for linking 100 NXIP Consoles to an IP gateway and as many as 1,000 NXIP consoles to a single network

Schedulable Stun/Kill to guard against unauthorised access or theft of radios

Fleet Priority Channel to assign traffic channels preferentially to a specific group

Automatic serial number registration when new subscriber units are added

Temporary switching of control and traffic channels for efficient frequency utilisation

Browser based multi-access configuration, monitoring and management

Call preemption/interruption to give priority to console calls

Firmware management and overwriting via network as well as fast updating

26th October 2015 — KENWOOD is proud to announce European availability of the NEXEDGE NX-5000 Series of portable and mobile two-way radios, capable of multi-protocol operation in two digital formats – NXDN™ 12.5 / 6.25kHz and P25 (Phases 1 & 2) – as well as mixed digital and FM analogue. Also supported is NXDN Type-C digital trunking. Precision-engineered for applications that demand a high level of performance and durability, they are ideal for organisations operating with a mix of analogue and digital radios, facilitating a smooth migration to full digital. The radio platform is ready for DMR and 5-Tone, software for these features will follow.

The two portables feature Bluetooth® for hands-free operation, accommodating up to 4,000 channels with 512 channels/zone and 128 zones. A memory card slot increases voice/data memory capacity. The NX-5200 VHF model operates on 136-174 MHz (6W), while the NX-5300 UHF model covers 400-470 MHz (5W). Both meet MIL-STD 810 C/D/E/F/G as well as the IP68 water immersion standard.

The two mobiles, which incorporate a DB-25 accessory connector and 4W speaker, similarly accommodate up to 4,000 channels with 512 channels/zone and 128 zones. The NX-5700 VHF model operates on 136-174 MHz (25-1W), while the NX-5800 UHF model operates on 400-470 MHz (25-1W). For durability, they satisfy MIL-STD 810 C/D/E/F/G; the RF deck meets IP54 and the remote head complies with the IP55 blowing rain standard.

Trademarks
・ AMBE+2™ is a trademark of Digital Voice Systems Inc.
・ Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc., used under license by JVCKENWOOD Corporation.
・ NXDN™ is a trademark of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and Icom Inc.
・ NEXEDGE® is a registered trademark of JVCKENWOOD Corporation.
・ All other company names, brand names and product names are registered trademarks or trade names of their respective holders.

Kenwood's ProTalk PKT-23 out on the slopes with Chemmy Alcott

Britain’s number one female alpine skier and 4-time Winter Olympian Chemmy Alcott has been skiing since she was a toddler. Born in London, Chemmy started competing at the age of 8 before embarking on a career that would see her work her way up to being ranked 8th in the world. Since retiring from alpine skiing in 2014, the talented athlete is keen on educating others on the value of sport.

Whilst coaching with her new company at CDC Performance, Chemmy recently used our Kenwood ProTalk LT PKT-23 two-way radio’s. Communication while skiing is very important for safety reasons and thanks to Kenwood’s ProTalk radio’s, Chemmy was able to keep accurate accountability of everyone at the touch of a button. Read Chemmy’s blog to see out how she got on:

Communication is Key - Kenwood Radios Blog NZ Summer 2015

7.35am sunrise Cardrona mountain resort, South Island NZ.

“Okay racer. Get that outside hand down at the apex of the turn. Course is clear. Let’s charge”

18 words.

18 words that can make or break an athlete’s run. Technical advise. Safety and words to motivate, inspire.

As the coach your success is measured by your trainee’s performance, for CDC however our aim is to develop people through sport, so we want to make happy, confident individuals ready to attack life. Either way, you have valuable runs to make marginal gains. You have to optimise every run. Every turn. You also have to make sure that the piste is clear - no wayward free skiers lost off the mountain, veering into your gates. With all the undulating terrain nature blesses skiers with, rarely can you see a whole run from the start. You slide down checking the snow - sliding out old tracks as much as possible. You stop on the knoll bathed in the pink hues of the sunrise. But the most important thing you do as a coach is to communicate.

As they say ‘communication is key’ and there are few places this is more important than when the safety of 9 young skiers hurtling at speed down a mountain is in your hands.

The radio at the start. The radio at the end. The radio at the cafe. The radio in each of the coaches’ right chest pockets. Each radio has its own personality - its own role. But equally without one you are running below efficiency.

Mr start Radio is always positive, wearing rose tinted glasses seeing the best in everyone but equally as sharp as a tack. Their job is brief but all important. Check in with the coach. Get the course clear and then those precious few words that can dictate the whole run - individually inspirational.

Mrs finish radio is sensitive, always there to relay feelings of new techniques, new lines tried. To check that the feelings and what the clock says are on par.

Mr cafe radio has the cushiest job of all. All day he stays warm nestled in the spare clothes of a rucksack in the cafe. He is there for freezing cold hands to awkwardly grab to ask coach for a break, then hot-chocolate-mug warmed hands to eagerly communicate that all is well and ready to go back out and brave the weather and attack the course once more.

Mr and Mrs coach radios are the motherships. They are there to make sure everything goes smoothly, optimizing efficiency, communicating ideas for change and improvement and perhaps uttering those golden words that can help change an athlete’s day.

Ski racing demands a lot from radios. It demands them to be small and light for ease of transport and tucking into pockets. It demands them to work when fingers freeze in sub zero temperatures. It demands them to be able to function through snow capped trees, valleys and lips, jumps and bumps.

The success of our NZ camp was that everything worked as a whole - we were one team. We were one team because we communicated at all times. Kenwood radios, to quote one our athletes, helped our trainees ‘have the time of our life.”

What more can you ask for?

It’s all about the customer.

Kenwood have been designing, manufacturing and marketing products of exceptional performance and quality since 1946.

Discover more about how and why we go to such great lengths to get our mission and business critical products and solutions right in our new film ‘It’s all about the customer’.

Kaunas Dispatcher - Mission Critical Dispatch System

Learn about how a nationwide NEXEDGE® trunked multi-site system is put to use in an advanced dispatch system from a Dispatch Manager's point of view.

The benefits of ProTalk Digital PMR446 explained

In the latest in a series of short films on ProTalk Digital 446, a presenter takes the viewer through the key features and benefits of the TK-3401D hand portable walkie talkies; from design to ease of use and flexibility through to its exceptional performance.